I was super happy when I heard the new announcement that Dwayne Fields has been appointed as the 11th UK Chief Scout! Dwayne joins an esteemed list of previous Chief Scouts, including the founder of Scouting himself, Robert Baden-Powell, who served from 1907 to 1941, and other notable names like Bear Grylls, who held the role from 2009 until 2024.

Dwayne Fields isn’t just a polar explorer and TV presenter—he’s a true trailblazer in every sense. As the first Black Briton to reach the North Pole and only the second Black man globally to achieve this incredible feat, Dwayne has carved out a unique place in history. Born in Jamaica and raised in Hackney, London, he’s become a passionate advocate for the outdoors, with a deep commitment to inspiring young people—especially those from inner-city communities—to connect with nature, discover adventure, and develop a love for the environment.

Dwayne’s journey with Scouting began in November 2017, when he was appointed a Scout Ambassador. In this role, he used his personal experiences and passion for exploration to inspire Scouts across the UK. His story resonates with Scouts from all backgrounds, encouraging them to push their boundaries, take on new challenges, and embrace the outdoors, no matter where they come from.

I had the pleasure of interviewing him shortly after he took on that role, and our conversation, recorded in his car (the only quiet place we could find!), was filled with laughter and insightful stories about his journey. You can check out our full chat here.

Now, as Dwayne steps into his new role as the 11th UK Chief Scout, he follows in the footsteps of Bear Grylls, and his appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the Scouting movement. His experience as an explorer and his commitment to environmentalism and youth empowerment perfectly align with the core values of Scouting: helping young people develop skills for life, fostering a sense of adventure, and nurturing a love for the natural world.

I want to send my personal congratulations to Dwayne as he takes on this prestigious role. His ability to inspire, coupled with his passion for making the outdoors more accessible to all, will undoubtedly be a powerful force as he leads the next generation of Scouts. I’m thrilled to see how he will continue to champion inclusivity, adventure, and environmental stewardship within the movement.

Welcome aboard, Dwayne! I’m sure your leadership will have a lasting impact on Scouts across the UK.